Everything You Need to Know About Kidney Stones

Anybody who has ever had a kidney stone at some point in their life expects them to form again. Most people with kidney stones worry about preventing new stones from forming in the kidneys. Tsegaw E Egziti M.D and the Kidney Specialists Center team conduct a comprehensive analysis of patients with kidney stones and recommend the appropriate treatment. Here is everything you need to know about kidney stones.

Overview

Kidney stones are mineral deposits that form in your kidneys. Your doctor recommends drinking plenty of water and a balanced diet to prevent a reoccurrence. However, if persistent, you can seek medical help for assessment and treatment. There are several causes of kidney stones; however, medical conditions, medications, diet, or supplements are the primary causes. These hard minerals affect the urinary tract, which consists of the bladder and your kidney. Failure to drink enough water can allow the minerals or salts to form hard deposits on your kidneys.

Symptoms

Most people with kidney stones report pain when passing urine. However, you can get relief by drinking water to help dissolve kidney stones. Complications can arise if the kidneys clog the urinary tract, which can necessitate surgery. Another symptom is severe pain on your back, side, or underneath the ribs. The pain may radiate to your groin or lower abdomen and may fluctuate from time to time. Other notable signs include dark and smelly urine and the need to pass urine frequently. However, the urine may discharge in small bits and is quite often accompanied by pain. Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, fever, or chills. It is vital to visit a health facility immediately after you experience these symptoms.

The risk factors

Several factors or conditions can promote the formation of kidney stones. Genetics is the primary factor for kidney difficulties and is inherited from people of the same family. If someone close to you had this condition, then there is a big chance that kidney stones will form in you or other members of your family. Failure to drink water can lead to mineral deposits forming in your kidneys. Likewise, sweating can also increase the risk. Eating particular food containing high amounts of protein, sugar, or sodium can increase the probability of getting infected. Obese people are at risk due to excess weight and high BMI or body mass index. Other factors include digestive problems, urinary tract conditions, and taking specific medication or supplements.

Preventing a recurrence and treatment

Even though your doctor may recommend medication to treat infected kidneys, you can take vital steps and adhere to healthy habits in preventing kidney stones from recurring. It is critical to check on your diet and avoid food containing high amounts of sodium, such as certain salts, sauces, and more. Also, include vegetables or fruits in your diet and limit the intake of coffee and alcohol. Mild cases can be treated by drinking a lot of water; however, large mineral deposits require medication to break them down and reduce pain.

Individuals can get relief from kidney stones by seeking treatment early. Contact a specialist at Houston Kidney Specialists Center for assessment and treatment recommendation.